Head:

Secretary:

Research Overview:

The Löwel lab is focussed on understanding the development and plasticity of neuronal circuits in the mammalian cortex. We use a combination of techniques, including optical imaging, physiology, neuroanatomy and modelling to explore how experience and learning influence the structure and function of nerve cell networks, how activity patterns and genetic factors influence these processes, and whether there are physiological and/or anatomical correlates of individual perceptual capabilities and disease-related deficits. We hope that answering these key questions not only helps to understand the rules underlying brain development, functioning and learning but additionally will open up new avenues to develop clinically relevant concepts to promote regeneration and rehabilitation for diseased and injured brains.

Fig.: Orientation preference map in the visual cortex: Similarly colored regions represent domains activated by the same stimulus orientation.

News:

• Siegrid Löwel receives "Neurosciences Excellence Award" of the Hertie-Foundation (Hertie-Exzellenzprogramm Neurosciences) [PDF 0.1 MB, 21.8.2003]
• Siegrid Löwel appointed Dorothea-Erxleben Guest Professorship [Link]
• Brain circuits genetically determined [Link, 15.8.2002]
• Interdisciplinary team demonstrates genetic influence on tiny brain structures [Link]

Annual Report:

• 04/05 Research Group Visual Attention & Perceptual Learning [PDF 0.5 MB]
• 02/03 Research Group Visual Attention & Perceptual Learning [PDF 0.6 MB]